If you are ready to fall in love all over again with comfort food, this Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe is a total game changer. It takes the classic mac and cheese to a whole new level by swapping out traditional pasta for pillowy gnocchi and layering in that irresistible smoky flavor from Gouda. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly smooth, this dish feels cozy and indulgent without a hint of heaviness, making it the ultimate comfort food to satisfy those cravings with a unique twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the luscious texture and smoky, cheesy depth that defines this recipe. From gnocchi’s soft bite to the blend of three cheeses, every element makes this dish sing.
- Gnocchi (2 packages, 16-18 oz total): The tender pillow-like base that soaks up all the creamy sauces perfectly.
- Vegetable broth (1 cup, divided): Adds savory depth and helps create a smooth cheese sauce without heaviness.
- Cornstarch (2 1/2 tablespoons): Essential for thickening the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
- Half & half (1/2 cup): Brings richness and smoothness without the heaviness of cream.
- Whole milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the sauce and balances the richness beautifully.
- Smoked Gouda (1 1/4 cup, shredded): The flavor star of this dish, delivering a smoky, slightly sweet cheese punch.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds sharpness and classic cheesy flavor to complement the Gouda.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Brings a salty, nutty finish that amps up the cheese complexity.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Gives just a hint of spice to lift all the flavors.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon, adjust to taste): Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by cooking your gnocchi exactly according to the package instructions. This usually involves boiling them until they float to the top, which means they’re perfectly tender and ready to soak up that dreamy cheese sauce. Once cooked, drain well and set aside so they don’t overcook or get mushy.
Step 2: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of vegetable broth and the cornstarch until smooth and lump-free. This slurry is what will give your cheese sauce the perfect velvety thickness, helping it cling beautifully to every gnocchi piece.
Step 3: Shred the Cheeses
Shred your smoked Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses while the gnocchi cooks. Doing this now makes it easy to add them all at once later on, ensuring they melt quickly and blend flawlessly into the sauce for that irresistible cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining 3/4 cup vegetable broth, half & half, and whole milk over medium heat. Stir this gently and wait until it just starts to simmer—this warm mixture sets the stage for a smooth and creamy sauce without any curdling.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry you prepared earlier. Keep whisking constantly as the sauce thickens and reaches a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to activate the cornstarch fully, stirring often so nothing sticks or burns. This step transforms your sauce from liquid to luscious velvety perfection.
Step 6: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Turn the heat off and immediately stir in all the shredded cheeses. The residual heat melts them gently, creating a smooth, creamy blend infused with smoky, sharp, and nutty notes. Finish by seasoning with black pepper and salt, adjusting the saltiness to your personal taste for that perfectly balanced bite.
Step 7: Combine with Gnocchi
Fold the cooked gnocchi into the hot cheese sauce, coating each pillowy bite evenly. Do this gently to keep the gnocchi intact while ensuring every morsel is dripping in rich, smoky, and cheesy goodness. Now it’s ready to serve, and the aroma alone will have everyone at the table eagerly anticipating their first bite.
How to Serve Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs add texture and color contrast that brighten the dish. A light drizzle of truffle oil or a few red pepper flakes can elevate the smoky cheesiness with a subtle hint of luxury and spice.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with bright and fresh sides such as a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables. The freshness of these sides cuts through the creaminess perfectly, keeping your meal balanced and satisfying without feeling heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, cozy presentation. Or, try layering it in a baking dish topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs then broiled to golden perfection for a decadent crust that everyone will love digging into.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken further, so you’ll want to reheat gently and perhaps stir in a splash of milk to regain that creamy texture.
Freezing
This gnocchi mac and cheese freezes well if stored properly. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. To avoid texture changes, it’s best to freeze it before combining the sauce and gnocchi and then assemble after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a little milk or broth to loosen the sauce as needed so it becomes creamy and smooth again, just like when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of gnocchi?
Absolutely! While gnocchi adds a unique texture and pillowy softness, you can substitute with your favorite pasta shape if desired. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for smoked Gouda?
If you can’t find smoked Gouda, try smoked mozzarella or a combination of mozzarella and a smoked cheese variety. Keep in mind this can change the flavor profile slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This recipe uses vegetable broth and no meat, making it a delicious vegetarian option. Just double-check your broth to ensure it’s free from animal products.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gnocchi or substitute with a gluten-free pasta, and confirm your vegetable broth is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy all the rich flavors without gluten concerns.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or crispy bacon make excellent additions that complement the smoky cheese beautifully. Add them after cooking the gnocchi for best results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and special about this Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s creamy, indulgent, and bursting with smoky, cheesy flavors that will warm your soul and impress family and friends alike. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, don’t hesitate to dive into this cheesy masterpiece—you’ll be glad you did!
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Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese is a creamy and indulgent twist on the classic comfort food, featuring pillowy gnocchi smothered in a rich smoked Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese sauce. Perfectly seasoned and ready in just 25 minutes, this dish brings smoky, cheesy goodness to your dinner table with a smooth texture and inviting flavor that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 2 packages of gnocchi (about 16–18 oz total)
Sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth, divided
- 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup half & half
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 1/4 cup smoked Gouda, shredded
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi: Prepare the gnocchi according to the package instructions. This usually involves boiling the gnocchi until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through. Once done, drain and set aside.
- Make the cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of the vegetable broth with the cornstarch. Stir this mixture thoroughly until it is smooth with no lumps, then set it aside for later use in thickening the sauce.
- Shred the cheeses: Shred the smoked Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Having these ready will make it easier to incorporate them into the sauce smoothly.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the remaining 3/4 cup of vegetable broth, half & half, and whole milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally to combine and prevent scorching. Heat the mixture until it just starts to simmer.
- Thicken the sauce: Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry to the simmering liquid. Continue whisking steadily until the sauce thickens and reaches a boil. Let it cook for about 2 minutes while stirring constantly to prevent the sauce from burning or sticking to the pan.
- Add the cheese and seasonings: Turn off the heat and immediately add the shredded smoked Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses to the thickened sauce. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt fully and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Then season with black pepper and salt, adjusting to taste.
- Combine with gnocchi: Add the cooked and drained gnocchi into the cheese sauce. Gently fold them together until the gnocchi is thoroughly coated with the rich, cheesy sauce.
- Serve warm: Spoon the smoked Gouda gnocchi mac and cheese onto plates or into bowls and serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, smoky flavors at their best.
Notes
- You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less cornstarch slurry according to your preference.
- For an extra crispy texture, you can briefly pan-fry the cooked gnocchi before adding to the sauce.
- Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for added freshness and flavor.
- Use low-fat half & half or milk for a lighter version, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently to avoid the sauce separating.
